The Vatican announced on February 24, 2025, the appointment of Monsignor Riccardo Battocchio as the new Bishop of Vittorio Veneto, succeeding Monsignor Corrado Pizziolo, who retired after 17 years of service due to age. This significant transition was made by Pope Francis, who, even under challenging health circumstances, ensured the continuity of leadership for the diocese.
Monsignor Battocchio, who has been the rector of the Almo Collegio Capranica, was born on August 14, 1962, in Bassano del Grappa, within the Vicenza diocese. He was ordained as a priest for the Diocese of Padova on June 7, 1987. With formal education culminating in a PhD in Dogmatic Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University, Battocchio is equipped with both pastoral and academic experiences.
His impressive track record includes roles such as director of the Diocesan Seminary Library, vice-dean of the Theological Faculty of Triveneto, and president of the Italian Theological Association from 2019. Since 2023, he also served as the special secretary for the XVI General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, illustrating his deep involvement within the Catholic Church's inner workings and theological discussions.
The announcement of his appointment was met with enthusiasm from local leadership. Luca Zaia, the President of the Veneto Region, remarked, "A man of great culture arrives in the Diocese once led by Albino Luciani. I am sure he will create strong ties with our land, which is made up of simple, hardworking, and welcoming people." This acknowledgment reflects the high hopes the local community has for Battocchio's leadership.
During the announcement, Monsignor Martino Zagonel expressed his congratulations to the newly appointed bishop, emphasizing the community's eagerness to support him as he assumes his new responsibilities. "Our beloved Diocese of Vittorio Veneto enjoys the gift of having a new bishop, and we congratulate you on the choice made by Pope Francis," Zagonel stated, instilling confidence for the future of the diocese.
Details surrounding the appointment underline the sense of continuity and reassurance desired within the community. Following the departure of Monsignor Pizziolo for missionary work in Brazil, there were concerns about the potential merging or restructuring of the diocese, which had been dismissed as unfounded by the Vatican's press office.
Public messages of support have also poured in from community leaders, who are eager to collaborate with Monsignor Battocchio as he transitions to this pivotal role. The municipal administration of Vittorio Veneto, led by Mayor Mirella Balliana, conveyed their support, stating their commitment to cooperating with the new bishop as he steps forward. They expressed optimism for engaging together to meet the community's needs during this transitional period.
The Vatican press release emphasized the significance of this new appointment, especially as the Holy See continues with its mission amid Pope Francis’s current health challenges. The Pope is undergoing treatment at the Gemelli Polyclinic, lending extra weight to this appointment as it signals stability within the Catholic community.
All eyes now turn to the upcoming ordination of Monsignor Battocchio, which is anticipated to take place after Easter 2025 and before Pentecost, allowing the diocese and its faithful to officially welcome their new bishop.
This eagerly awaited ordination promises not just to mark the beginning of Battocchio's episcopal ministry but also to reaffirm the diocese's commitment to its rich tradition and community-oriented leadership inspired by the teachings and example of previous bishops.